If you prefer a more natural setting, you don't have to leave the city to swim in its waters. As we reported earlier this week, the city now has three sandy beaches along the Willamette River, including one under the Marquam Bridge that was unveiled this month. Oregon's Department of Environmental Quality says that the water is safe to swim in most of year, but that it is best to avoid after heavy rain.

If you don't have air conditioning at home, just drive north to the Ape Caves Lava Tube on the south side of Mount St. Helens.

Bring a jacket with you, as the temperature is 42 degrees year-round.

A lava tube is a tunnel formed by molten lava. These are the third longest in North America at more than two miles.

There is a $5 fee per vehicle and an additional $5 for lantern rental.

Brewpub theaters

Avoid the outside world altogether by escaping to one of Portland's many "brew 'n view" movie theaters. Scattered throughout the city, these are places you can grab a beer, eat some food and catch a cheap flick in the comfort of an air-conditioned (and often historic) room. You can even watch the World Cup final on Sunday at the air-conditioned Bagdad Theatre in Southeast Portland.

Cooling centers

For elderly residents, Multnomah County's Aging and Disability Services Division will open four cooling centers in the Portland area at the following addresses: